The World Health Organization issued guidance on how to respond to heat emergencies to prevent serious injury or death [1].

Rapid intervention is critical because heatstroke is a medical emergency that can be life-threatening [1]. Failure to act quickly when the body overheats can lead to permanent organ damage or fatality.

For individuals who begin to feel unwell during extreme heat, the organization said to stop all activity immediately [1]. Those affected should find shade, and drink water to lower their core temperature [1]. If symptoms persist or worsen, the organization said to seek medical help immediately [1].

When assisting others, the priority is to move the person out of the sun and into a shaded area [1]. Once the person is in the shade, bystanders should call for emergency medical services [1].

These steps are designed to stabilize a patient until professional medical responders arrive. The organization said that heatstroke requires urgent clinical intervention to prevent the most severe outcomes [1].

“Heatstroke is an emergency.”

This guidance underscores the global health priority of managing extreme heat as a critical medical event rather than a mere discomfort. By simplifying the response protocol—shade, hydration, and immediate professional help—the WHO aims to reduce mortality rates during heatwaves through bystander intervention.